One of ExpressJet’s own mechanics is a real life rocket scientist.

Darius Hooker, A&P technician – Shreveport, participated in the Team America Rocketry Challenge for three years while in high school. To prepare, he took crash courses in physics, trigonometry, software and more. As a junior, he took his new knowledge and designed a rocket that almost landed his team a spot in the finals.

“For a couple of guys who started out not knowing much about rockets, we did pretty decent,” Darius said.

Darius’ senior year, he took his design from the previous year and made some improvements. He knew it was now or never.

“The goal was to build a rocket that could carry two raw eggs 800 feet 43-47 seconds,” Darius explained. “On our last shot, the rocket made it 801 feet in 45 seconds.”

That last shot earned the team a score of 1, placing them in the top 1% of the country and securing their spot at the national competition in D.C.

The national competition was an unforgettable experience. Darius and his teammate, Wesley Carter, raised $15,000 in donations to help them get to D.C. They arrived on a chartered plane and had a car service waiting to meet them at the airport. The boys spent three days touring D.C., speaking with the press and competing in the national competition.

“As the first African American team to qualify, we already felt like winners,” Darius said. “It was a great accomplishment for us.”

Later, when Darius was in A&P school, he received a phone call from the White House. President Obama wanted to meet Darius and Wesley, and invited them to come back to D.C. to participate in the White House Science Fair.

Once again, they received the super star treatment. Lockheed Martin flew them in and took care of all their expenses during the trip. They toured the National Mall, saw the Lincoln Memorial and biked through D.C. to Virginia. Then, on their last day they went to the White House to meet the President.

“He shook our hand three times – I counted! We were the first ones in the room who got to meet him. It was just like talking to a normal person. He asked us all about the competition and what we planned to do in the future.”

Darius now works as an A&P technician at our Shreveport base. His long term goal is to get a degree in aeronautical engineering and management.

“Working at ExpressJet and working on aircraft will definitely give me the upper hand in my classes and my future.”

Pictured: Darius, Wesley and President Obama

For further information contact:
Michael J. Kraupp
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
SkyWest, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Telephone: (435) 634-3212
Fax: (435) 634-3205

ST. GEORGE, UT, July 15, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — SkyWest, Inc. (NASDAQ: SKYW) will host a conference call on Wednesday, August 6, 2014, to discuss the second quarter 2014 earnings results.

Please see the PDF version for the complete release.

For further information contact:
Michael J. Kraupp
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
SkyWest, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Telephone: (435) 634-3212
Fax: (435) 634-3205

ST. GEORGE, UT, August 6, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — SkyWest, Inc. (NASDAQ: SKYW) today reported financial operating results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2014.

Please see the PDF version for the complete release.

For further information contact:
Michael J. Kraupp
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer
SkyWest, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Telephone: (435) 634-3212
Fax: (435) 634-3205

ST. GEORGE, UT, August 27, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — The Board of
Directors of SkyWest, Inc. (NASDAQ: SKYW) declared a quarterly dividend of $.04 per share to Shareholders of record at the close of business on September 30, 2014 on all shares then issued and outstanding.

Please see the PDF version for the complete release.

First Officer Jonathan Coker is on his way to adding an extra stripe to his uniform. He is currently in training to become an ExpressJet captain on the CRJ200 where he will fly for American Airlines out of Dallas, but he started as an ExpressJet intern while at Auburn University. A few months after graduation, he started new hire class two days after Christmas in 2006.

“Working as an intern paved the way for my career at ExpressJet, and it was a great opportunity to see what it’s really like to be a pilot full time,” said Jonathan. “I saw pilots throughout their work day; I saw what they did. I learned how pilots bid for their schedules and even had the privilege to observe several flights in the flight deck jumpseat.”

In January 2006, Jonathan started his internship at what was then Atlantic Southeast Airlines. He learned about the internship opportunity his senior year at Auburn when an airline representative, a precursor to ExpressJet’s EPIC Ambassador program, advised his class about the opportunity, which had a 90 percent success rate of starting pilot careers. In the internship, he worked in Crew Pay Auditing and then in the Chief Pilot’s Office.

“In an internship, they’re looking for maturity and work ethic on a daily basis for five months,” said Jonathan. “Every day is an interview, every single day.”

Now, Jonathan is going through a different type of interview, one that will upgrade him to a captain in Dallas, Texas.

Upgrading from first officer to captain is a six-week process with both in-classroom and hands-on training. Jonathan is thankful for the extra systems training as he will have to relearn the CRJ200.
“I flew the CRJ200 for two years before I transitioned to the CRJ700,” said Jonathan. “But I flew on the CRJ700 for so long and the systems are so different, it’s going to take some time.”

Jonathan’s upgrade training begins with two weeks of ground school, which focuses on aircraft systems and Captain Leadership. He must then pass an oral exam before he can spend the next two weeks completing eight, four-hour simulation sessions. Jonathan’s training concludes with two weeks of flying 25 hours as the pilot-in-command (PIC) on revenue flights with an instructor occupying the right seat.

It may seem like a strenuous process, but Jonathan understands the serious implications of his impending promotion.

“You move four feet to the left and suddenly you’re the final authority for anything that happens on your flight.”

Although Jonathan is eager to put on his captain’s hat, he doesn’t want to forget where he came from. Jonathan plans to be a mentor to the first officers who fly with him, but also to aviation students emerging in the field. Soon-to-be Captain Coker serves as an EPIC Ambassador at Florida Aviation Academy.

“I was mentored into this position,” said Jonathan. “I want to pay it forward and become an inspiration to someone else.”

Jonathan attributes much of his success to a piece of advice he received as he was starting his education:

“Don’t focus on where you’re going to be next year. Focus on where you’re going to be in ten years. You may have to sacrifice a few things now to get where you want to be in the future, but it will be worth it. Focus on your studies, and always make smart, safe decisions.”

For further information contact:
Investor Relations
St. George, UT 84790
Telephone: (435) 634-3203
Fax: (435) 634-3205

ST. GEORGE, UT, September 5, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — SkyWest, Inc., (NASDAQ: SKYW) (“SkyWest”) today reported a 0.5 percent decrease in revenue passenger miles (RPMs) for August, while available seat miles (ASMs) decreased 2.1 percent compared to August 2013.

Please see the PDF version for the complete release.

Cleveland is home to one of ExpressJet’s largest Maintenance hangars and a crew base, but the city has a long history in the aviation industry that’s much bigger than ExpressJet.

Since its inception in 1964, Burke Lakefront Airport has been home to one of the oldest, most respected air shows in the United States: The Cleveland National Air Show. The event began with the National Air Races (1929-1949) which hosted aviation legends like Amelia Earhart and Charles Lindbergh, and has now grown to an annual air show attracting 60,000 to 100,000 aviation enthusiasts.

ExpressJet participated in The Cleveland National Air Show this year by bringing an ERJ145 aircraft for attendees to explore, along with several employees who volunteered their time to talk with attendees about careers in aviation.

The ExpressJet volunteers put together an interactive display experience by outfitting the aircraft cabin with posters and flyers, each one detailing what it takes to be an ExpressJet pilot, flight attendant, mechanic, dispatcher or crew scheduler. ExpressJet employees, representing Flight Operations, Safety and Inflight Services, rotated in and out of the cabin to answer questions and take pictures of kids in the captain’s seat.

“We were absolutely thrilled with ExpressJet’s participation. Captain Paul K. turned a static display into a true attraction on the air show grounds,” said Kim Dell, the air show spokesperson. “There was a constant line of people waiting to walk through the aircraft, and the educational aspect of aviation careers was spot on.”

Our volunteers met younger kids who dreamt of soaring through the clouds, adults who dreamt of flying again, and everything in between. The air show is for everybody, from the enthusiast to future aviators to those already in the business. For our volunteers, the experience was about more than representing ExpressJet or inspiring future careers; it’s about the pure love of aviation.

“When the little kids see a big jet up close for the first time, it’s pretty cool,” said Captain Paul K., an ExpressJet pilot who helped coordinate ExpressJet’s involvement in the event. “As you get older, I think sometimes you forget that.”

Special thanks to all our employees who volunteered their time to represent ExpressJet at the Cleveland National Air Show and promote careers in aviation.

“The Cleveland National Air Show would like to thank everyone involved,” said Kim. “ExpressJet’s impact was huge, and we would love to have you involved again next year.”

ExpressJet tail with a show aircraft in the background

It’s no secret that it takes a special type of person to be a part of the airline industry. Its constant change can be challenging, but it’s this experience that bonds aviation professionals to one another. ExpressJet is no exception to this rule.

In many ways, our employees are like family. One person’s successes and struggles are everyone’s, and perhaps no one knows this better than Cleveland-based Captain Scott Z. and his family.

Scott has been with ExpressJet for nearly decade, but the compassion of his fellow employees still amazes him to this day.

“I didn’t know what to expect when I asked people for help,” said Scott. “The response we’ve gotten has been incredible. There are no words to tell you what this means to my family.”

Scott’s family was blessed with two daughters. His older daughter, Kaitlynn, was everything Scott and his wife, Michaelle, asked for. As they navigated parenthood for the first time, watching their little girl grow, it became clear that there was something wrong. She wasn’t meeting her milestones and at seven months had her first seizure.

Five years and countless hospital tests later, Kaitlynn is still undiagnosed. Doctors believe she has a chromosome disorder, but it’s impossible to say which. The disorder has hindered her development, keeping her from learning how to walk or communicate.

Through research, Scott and Michaelle learned that a service dog may help Kaitlynn. A service dog’s companionship and seizure sensing ability would be invaluable to Kaitlynn, but Scott believes it could impact her social development as well.

“She can’t talk, but at the same time, she’s so social,” said Scott. “She’s at that age where she should be starting preschool, but it’s tough. Kids that age will shy away from her, because she’s different. If she has a dog though, the dog would be her icebreaker. It would bring the kids around her and expand her world to a type of social interaction she’s never had.”

Though there are an infinite number of ways Kaitlynn could benefit from a service dog, the price is steep: $10,000. Out of financial means, Scott and Michaelle turned to social media for help. Although they had some success, Scott had no expectations when he reached out to some of his fellow ExpressJet pilots. The story spread up through the corporate office, and a story was posted on the company intranet.

“It just went viral. People I didn’t fly with, that I didn’t even know, contributed to help Kaitlynn. It was amazing.”

Scott and Michaelle are well on their way to getting Kaitlynn a service dog. They have a few more months to finish raising the money, and then they’ll receive a dog from the non-profit organization, Working Animals Giving Service for Kids (WAGS) by early next year.

“Whenever we show her pictures of potential dogs, Kaitlynn shouts with happy noises and waves her arms in excitement,” said Scott. “This experience showed us how great it is to have so much support from everyone in the company. It means we don’t have to focus on things that don’t matter, like money, and we can focus on things that do matter, like being there for Kaitlynn.”

Hopefully, Scott and his family will have the funding for Kaitlynn’s service dog sooner than they think. In the two days since this story posted on ExpressJet’s internal website, employees, along with friends and family, have raised more than $5,000 for Kaitlynn’s service dog. With any luck, this will only be the start of something amazing for Scott and his wonderful family.

If you’re interested in learning more about Kaitlynn’s journey and how you can help her get a service dog, visit her GoFundMe page.

ExpressJet is traveling to several of our Airline Pilot Pathway Program (AP3) partner schools to do on-site testing and interviews for current junior and senior AP3 students.

Successful completion to the 45-question knowledge test, based on the ATP written, and an in-person interview leads to a conditional job offer with ExpressJet Airlines. Students can attend any scheduled testing, even if it’s not at your school.

Click the testing date/location below to sign up. Times and locations for each testing date are updated on the registration site. More dates will be added soon, so check back often!

• Arizona State University, Nov. 3-4
  • Click here to register
• Embry-Riddle Prescott, Nov. 5
  • Click here to register
• Transpac Aviation Academy, Nov. 6
  • Click here to register
• University of North Dakota, Nov. 12-13
  • Click here to register
• Jacksonville University, Nov. 17
  • Click here to register
• Embry-Riddle Daytona, Nov. 18
  • Click here to register
• Embry-Riddle Daytona, Nov. 19
  • Click here to register
• Florida Institute of Technology, Nov. 20
  • Click here to register
• Aerosim Academy, Nov. 21
  • Click here to register

For more information contact:
ExpressJet Corporate Communications
corpcomm@expressjet.com
Business hours: 404-856-1199
After hours: 877-955-3989

ATLANTA — ExpressJet Airlines is the first part 121 passenger-carrying airline to receive Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval on an in-house Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification training program (CTP).

The ATP CTP became a requirement on Aug. 1, 2014 for new pilots wanting to attain their ATP certification, which qualifies them to fly commercial aircraft. The CTP, which must be taken before a new pilot can take the ATP written test, is usually completed independently by an aspiring pilot and can cost around $5,000.

“We recognize the financial burden of the ATP CTP course on young pilots,” said Brad Sheehan, vice president – Flight Operations at ExpressJet Airlines. “By providing this course in-house during our new hire classes, we can offer not only the best training, but also ensure that top future pilots have access to that training.”

Members of ExpressJet’s Flight Operations Training department worked closely with the FAA to develop a training program that meets the rigorous requirements for ATP CTP certification. The course consists of four days of ground school – in-classroom course work – followed by three days of hands-on training in the flight training device and simulator. Successful completion of the course allows the candidate to take the ATP written exam.

“ExpressJet is consistently working to make our airline the best choice for aviators beginning their careers,” said Brad. “Being the first airline to achieve this certification speaks to the quality of our training and our commitment to fostering pilots – from students, through training, to careers at a regional and on to major airlines.”

The ATP CTP certification comes at a great time as ExpressJet has scheduled new hire classes for pilots in December. Potential candidates applying for these classes will not require a completed ATP CTP course or ATP written exam prior to applying. Instead, they can complete the seven-day CTP course offered by ExpressJet before beginning new hire training.

Please see the PDF version for the complete release.

Airplane geeks are people who can’t take their eyes off an aircraft as it ascends. Even if they’ve seen those wheels lift off the runway a thousand times, there’s just something about the wonder of aviation that doesn’t fade for them. It’s why they collect model airplanes or consume aviation literature, even if they never get to see the inside of a flight deck. Last week, Vice President of Flight Operations Brad Sheehan gave aviation fanatics a taste of life at ExpressJet as the first airline guest ever on the wildly popular podcast, The Airplane Geeks.

This amazing opportunity wouldn’t have happened without one of our own airplane geeks, Atlanta-based First Officer Albert Menefee.

“I’ve been hooked on The Airplane Geeks since practically the beginning of the podcast,” said Albert. “I’m always looking for aviation knowledge, and The Airplane Geeks have such diverse discussions on areas of the industry, like history, that I never would have known otherwise.”

Started in 2008, The Airplane Geeks podcast was developed by a small group of enthusiasts with the singular goal to educate the world on all things aviation. Although their discussions on commercial, military and general aviation topics are both fascinating and informative, it’s their passion for the subject that’s truly contagious. It’s why Albert started listening in, and why he thought it would be great for ExpressJet to get involved.

“I’d seen airline employee podcasts before, but The Airplane Geeks is a huge aviation podcast with a great following and yet had never had a guest from an airline before. It seemed like a perfect fit for us.”

Albert sent an email to The Airplane Geeks producer asking for more information. He then reached out to ExpressJet’s communication team hoping to get the approval of the person he wanted to appear on the podcast the most – Brad.

“I was honored to be asked to join the Airplane Geeks podcast, because I am the biggest airplane geek,” said Brad. “As a leading regional airline, it’s important that we put ourselves out there so that we can inspire the next generation of aviation professionals. Albert came up with a great idea, and I was proud to be a part of it.”

During Brad’s podcast interview, he spoke about his journey to ExpressJet, the processes involved in running flight operations and the landscape for regional airlines in the industry. Brad’s discussion with The Airplane Geeks emphasized the way regionals work, why we exist and why we matter.

“ExpressJet needs to be a voice in the conversation,” said Brad. “We represent a large part of the industry and the starting grounds for aviation professionals. We are the regional experts, and we deserve to be heard in forums like this.”

Brad’s passionate about the subject, because, after all, he is an airplane geek. Like many of us, he lives and breathes aviation, and it’s that drive that will keep him innovating for ExpressJet.

As for Albert, his innovation also shows no signs of slowing down.

“I believe in this company,” said Albert. “As an airline, we’re doing this the right way, and that’s why I’ll always be motivated to come up with ideas that help make us better. We deserve the best.”

Click here to listen to the full podcast from Brad’s interview on The Airplane Geeks

First Officer Albert Menefee and Vice President of Flight Operations Brad Sheehan

‘Tis the season for thinking of others, a tradition ExpressJet people have long held. With more than 9,000 employees at 10 crew bases and 17 Maintenance locations, our people have a lot of opportunity to give back to their communities.

“I am continuously amazed by the generosity of our people,” said Cathy Harris, vice president – People Resources. “From donating toys for needy children, to raising funds for various charities, to collecting toiletries and canned foods for those less fortunate, our people are always looking for ways to support our communities.”

This year our people across the country participated in dozens of drives, events and fundraisers to help those less fortunate. While our people participate in charitable activities year-round (Bert’s Big Adventure, Locks of Love, Movember and breast cancer walks just to name a few), here’s a snapshot of how our people are giving back this holiday season:

Shreveport raises $3,167 for Muscular Dystrophy Association in one day

Our Shreveport Maintenance base decided to host a “lock in” on Dec. 10 to raise funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. A lock in is where volunteers get “locked up” and have to raise money to “bail themselves out.” The team set “bail” at $200 and chose 14 volunteers, in two shifts, to post photos of themselves behind bars on their social media pages to ask for “bail money.” The goal was to raise $2,400 which the team beat by $757 for a total raised of $3,167. The MDA was so excited by ExpressJet’s contributions that they sent a giant check, organization representatives and, most importantly, a 5-year-old boy with muscular dystrophy to the hangar for a presentation ceremony.

Crew Planning & Training Scheduling departments adopt two families for Secret Santa Christmas

To say our Crew Planning and Training Scheduling departments love holidays is an understatement. From Halloween to St. Patty’s Day, to birthdays and Christmas, they go all out. A long-standing tradition is Secret Santa where the 21-person team exchange names and purchase gifts, in secret, for each other. This year, the team decided to purchase gifts for a needy family instead of treating each other. They “adopted” two underprivileged families through Families First, an Atlanta-based charity, and purchased clothing, necessities, toys and games for four adults and seven children ranging in age from two to ten. They set a $30 limit (which nearly everyone broke) and purchased dozens of gifts to make this Christmas special for the families.

ExpressJet people donate 600+ gifts to Toys for Tots

A long-standing tradition at ExpressJet is partnering with Toys for Tots to give gifts to those less fortunate. From Secret Santa Pilot, whose family anonymously donates 150+ toys each year, to our ATL crew base which has donated 2,204 toys since 2008, to the Uhaul full of toys and 45 bikes donated to Toys for Tots at our headquarters right now – ExpressJet cares about the kids. This year team members in Atlanta, Cleveland, Dallas, Houston and Chicago filled boxes with toys to donate to local kids.

Knoxville collected canned goods for Second Harvest Food Bank

Our Maintenance team in Knoxville always participates in a charitable organization over the holidays, and this year they collected non-perishables and canned food donations for people in need. Our teams in Knoxville donated more than 185 pounds of food this year – enough to feed 152 people! Second Harvest Food Bank is East Tennessee’s largest hunger-relief charity feeding thousands each year.

Houston and Chicago collect toiletries

One perk of staying in hotel rooms while flying trips is the mini-toiletries crew members can save to donate to those in need. Our teams in Houston and Chicago are collecting toiletries and basic hygiene essentials for SafePlace in Austin. SafePlace supports victims of sexual and domestic violence through safety, healing, prevention and social change. Toiletries donated this holiday season will help provide basic necessities for these victims.

Atlanta, Houston and Kansas City support Ronald McDonald House

The Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) supports families while they support their children fighting a major illness or injury. RMHC helps reduce financial strain on parents in an already difficult situation by providing room, board and necessities near the hospital for those traveling from out of town. They also help provide basic medical and dental care in a vulnerable community. Our teams in Atlanta, Houston and Kansas City area collecting toiletries, gently used luggage and coats, soda can pop tabs and pantry items for RMHC.

Kansas City base supports local Union Mission and Children’s Literacy Program

Our Kansas City base is also collecting tooth brushes and toothpaste to the support the Kansas City Union Mission, and dictionaries for the Children’s Literacy Program. The Union Mission supports the city’s homeless population by providing basic necessities, shelter and meals, and the Children’s Literacy Program promotes reading and literacy beginning in childhood.

Dulles team collects jackets for One Warm Coat

One Warm Coat started in 1992 and has since provided thousands of jackets to those in need, free of charge. Our Dulles base in Virginia is collecting new and gently used jackets and coats at the base to support this charity. Clean out your closets today and help someone in need make it through a cold winter!

Dallas collects winter weather gear for S.I.S.T.A.S.
Our Dallas base is collecting gently used jackets, gloves, scarves, hand warmers, blankets and socks for the local area homeless. S.I.S.T.A.S. is a non-profit organization that aims to empower women across all ethnic and socio-economic lines. Our Dallas team is partnering with the organization to keep those in need warm this winter.

How do you give back during the holidays, or all year long?

Ryan Carter with instructor Ty Gardener who developed ExpressJet’s  ATP CTP course

In November, ExpressJet was the first passenger-carrying airline to receive FAA certification to offer the ATP CTP course in-house. This means our new hires can take this required course at no cost instead of paying thousands to take the class on their own. Our first student, new hire Ryan Carter, finished the course and will be out on the line once he finishes training!

As a corporate charter pilot for 12 years, Ryan thought the transition to regional airlines would be an easy career move. What he didn’t count on was one test with a tiny acronym and a big price tag: the Airline Transport Pilot certification training program (ATP CTP).

“Being a corporate pilot doesn’t require an ATP CTP,” said Ryan. “That certification didn’t apply to me, so I didn’t think about it.”

That quickly changed when he decided to further his career at a regional airline. Ryan learned he would have to pay $5,000 – $6,000 for the certification that would start him on his new career path. Luckily for him, and all the other aspiring regional pilots, ExpressJet recently got certified to teach the ATP CTP course in-house as part of a pilot’s new-hire training.

“When I learned that ExpressJet offered this course for free, it was a big relief. I’m so glad I decided to begin my career here,” Ryan said.

Ryan started the course this month as a new-hire CRJ pilot for ExpressJet, and quickly realized that it offered him a lot more than a financial break and necessary certification.

“The course has been a great introduction into the environment here,” said Ryan. “I get to ask all the questions I want because I’m in a small classroom setting. It’s a bigger transition than I thought moving to a regional jet, and I’m thankful I’ve been able to take this course at the airline I’ll be joining.”

Ryan’s not the only one who’s learning from this experience. As part of the first group to ever take our ATP CTP course, ExpressJet instructors like Ty Gardener are looking to Ryan’s feedback to continue to evolve the course.

“It’s always important to get feedback when you develop a program, so I definitely want Ryan’s opinion,” said Ty Gardner, instructor – ExpressJet Flight Ops Training. “Ultimately, we want this course to be more than a way to get your certification; we want it to be a better place to start your training.”

If Ryan has a say, the ATP CTP course may have already achieved Ty’s goal.

“Everything’s been great so far, and I’m sure it’ll get better,” said Ryan.

Becoming an ExpressJet pilot has never been better. Starting today, we’re offering a $7,500 bonus to any new-hire pilot who has a CRJ 200/700/900 or ERJ 135/145 type rating.

“As the regional with the largest national network and established performance record, we are committed to bringing in the best pilots with the experience to fly our aircraft,” said Vice President of Flight Operations Brad Sheehan.

Qualified new-hire pilots will receive a $3,750 pre-tax bonus within seven to ten days after they successfully complete the training proficiency check. The additional $3,750 pre-tax bonus will be deposited after new-hire pilots have completed twelve months of service with ExpressJet.

If you’re ready to join the ExpressJet, or if you have questions about our type rating bonus program, contact pilotrecruiting@expressjet.com.

In the newly released U.S. Department of Transportation Air Travel Consumer Report, December was ExpressJet’s best month in 2014 where we performed better than all regional carriers and many major airlines in our key metrics.

“ExpressJet will continue to focus on the fundamentals that make an airline great: customer service, reliability and operational excellence,” said ExpressJet Chief Operating Officer Alex Marren. “Our December on-time arrival and passenger satisfaction scores highlight the improvements we’ve made in those areas to ensure ExpressJet is the best, most reliable regional airline for our customers and our mainline partners.”

In the report, ExpressJet placed the best of any regional carrier for the quarter and among the top of all airlines in on-time arrivals. Despite December being one of the busiest months to travel, we also received the lowest customer complaint ratio of any carrier. At ExpressJet, we take immense pride in the level of trust and dependability our customers place in our team.

“I want to say thank you to all our ExpressJet team members for your hard work, and congratulations on a job well done,” said Alex.

2014 was a year of tremendous improvements for ExpressJet and we look forward to hearing more great news of our customer service and consistency.

You can read the full DOT report on December 2014 here.

Atlanta-based ExpressJet First Officer Brandon Arrington is a dedicated athlete, so when he got the call that he had been chosen to appear on the NBC reality show “American Ninja Warrior,” an athletic competition show in which contestants compete in a series of increasingly difficult obstacle courses, he was certainly excited.

“My friends and colleagues insisted I apply,” said Brandon. “When I got the call, I was pumped – no, ecstatic. Everyone high-fived me.”

Thousands of applicants applied for the show’s Southeast regional competition. Only 120 contestants are chosen to run the course, and of those, the top 30 finishers are featured on the show. Brandon first competed on American Ninja Warrior in 2013, and was selected to return the following season in 2014. Now he’s up for his third appearance, and will soon know if he is selected.

“I was caught up in the excitement of getting chosen,” he said. “Then reality hit, and I realized I had two weeks to train.”

As a pilot, Brandon is no stranger to training, but this time he was preparing physically for an athletic competition on national television. In spite of the brief preparation time, Brandon was more than ready to compete. He’d been physically active his whole life and had a regular exercise routine.

“The show tests your upper body strength, balance, jumping and sprinting. I’d been doing CrossFit for a few years, and it’s worked really great for training,” he explained.

His first time on the show, Brandon tore his triceps muscle a week before filming. Despite this setback, he was given the green light to compete and made it through the first course easily. The second night, he fell on the pipe slider obstacle which requires the competitor to hang from a metal bar and slide along a track while gaining enough momentum to leap from the pipe to a cargo net obstacle.

Brandon says the best part of the competition is spending time with his family: his wife Kala and their young son, Connor.

“They are my inspiration and support during the competition. At one point, I was climbing the Warped Wall, and I had to get over this ledge. I didn’t know how I was going to get my arm over my head because of the injury but my adrenaline was pumping, and I could hear my wife and mother-in-law cheering me on. I looked and saw Kala holding up my son, dressed in a ninja outfit. She was yelling ‘do it for your little ninja!’ It was cheesy, but I was able to get up over that wall.”

NBC asked Brandon to return the following year. Two months before filming, he endured another training injury – this time tearing his middle deltoid and part of his rotator cuff. Again, his family helped him get past the setback.

“The first night, I blew through the course and thought I could take on the second night with no problem, but the other contestants and I all failed. It was disappointing, but it served as my motivation for coming back next year.”

The second night’s obstacle course required contestants to jump from giant, bouncy balls – a tough challenge made even more difficult by the pouring rain.

Brandon inherited his love for exercise and sports from his father, who passed away in 2010.

“My dad was an amazing athlete,” he said. “We played sports together. He worked two jobs but always made time for me and my brother.”

Although his training physically prepared him for the competition, his career as a pilot prepared him mentally.

“My job as a pilot helped me learn to not get worked up in stressful situations. It helps with handling pressure, being able to control your heartbeat and being comfortable in front of people.”

Outside of work and the show, Brandon constantly stays physically active.

“It’s a conscious decision, and you’ve got to stick with it. Find something you’re passionate about that’s fun for you. That’s also why I love my job as a pilot – I get to do something I love and have fun doing it.”

Though he’s waiting for the official word from NBC, Brandon looks forward to returning to American Ninja Warrior. The next season will film in Orlando, and it would give him a chance to take his son to Disney World.

“I’m just a big kid at heart,” he said. “I love to do anything that tests my physical and mental abilities.”

Brandon on the American Ninja Warriors obstacle course

Brandon with his wife Kala and his “little ninja” Connor at the American Ninja Warrior competition

ExpressJet has partnered with Atlanta-based charity Bert’s Big Adventure since it started 13 years ago. BBA takes children with chronic and terminal illnesses and their families on an all-expenses-paid, once-in-a-lifetime trip to Disney World, and providing the flight is a special honor to our ExpressJet team members.

Our crews volunteer to operate the flight; team members serve as Family Helpers where they treat their special family like VIPs; hundreds of ExpressJet people sent in hand-written notes to the Adventurers from our maintenance and crew bases across the country; and dozens of employees and their families gathered in the chilly hangar for the annual Bon Voyage event today.

For many of the BBA families, this is their first flight, first trip to Disney or even their first family vacation, and ExpressJet people are proud to make it extra special for these deserving kids. Check out some photos from today’s Bon Voyage event:

BBA Crew and Disney characters welcome an Adventurer onto the plane

ExpressJet COO Alex Marren (second from right) with Trey, Cynthia and Sharon – three of the many ExpressJet team members who help make BBA happen

2015 BBA Flight Attendant Vanessa greets an Adventurer

Disney characters join the celebration

Captain Jeff helps an Adventurer onto the plane

ExpressJet crew members with Bert and Stacey – the founders of Bert’s Big Adventure

ExpressJet crew members and Family Helpers with an Adventurer

Family Helpers waiting for their special family

ExpressJet team members and their families cheer on the Adventurers

Family Helpers meet their special Adventurer

ExpressJet team members with Disney characters

Family Helpers with their special Adventurer

ExpressJet family cheering on the Adventurers

Family Helpers wait for their special family

2015 BBA First Officer Dean poses with an Adventurer

2015 BBA Flight Attendant Vanessa talks with an Adventurer

Family Helpers meet their special Adventurer

In honor of Black History Month, ExpressJet recognizes the many achievements in aviation by African Americans and celebrates our own contribution to their legacy within the industry.

On Feb. 12, 2009, ExpressJet (then ASA) made history when Captain Rachelle Jones, First Officer Stephanie Grant, and flight attendants Diana Galloway and Robin Rogers (pictured) flew the first commercial flight operated by an all-female African American crew. A round-trip from Atlanta to Nashville, the flight happened by pure chance when a first officer became ill and First Officer Grant was called to fill in.

The historic nature of the flight was made possible by the brave men and women who broke through the walls of discrimination and took the aviation industry to new heights. In celebration of Black History Month, we remember these courageous individuals and their extraordinary contributions which paved the way for countless other aviation professionals.

1912: Emory Conrad Malick becomes the first African American pilot

1921: Bessie Coleman becomes the first African American female pilot

1931: The Curtiss-Wright Aeronautical School provides instruction in aircraft mechanics to its first African American class

1938: Cornelius Coffey becomes the first African American to establish an aeronautical school

1940: C. Alfred “Chief” Anderson, often called the “Father of Black Aviation,” is hired as the chief flight instructor for the WWII Tuskegee Airmen at the Tuskegee Institute

1956: Perry Young becomes the first African American commercial airline pilot, hired by regional carrier New York Airways

1958: Ruth Carol Taylor becomes the first African American flight attendant, hired by Mohawk Airlines

1963: By way of the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case, Marlon Green becomes the first African American pilot hired by a major commercial airline, Continental Airlines

1978: Jill E. Brown Hiltz becomes the first African American female pilot hired by a major commercial airline

2009: The first all-female African American crew to operate a commercial flight

ExpressJet is dedicated to fostering a work environment that respects, celebrates, and promotes diversity, and we are incredibly proud to have added to the long history of African American success in aviation.

We’re committed to continuing our partnership with groups who share these values, such as the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP). OBAP’s mission is to enhance, advance and promote educational opportunities in aviation and aerospace. Their goals are to motivate youth in becoming educationally prepared for careers and life, and increasing minority participation and representation in aviation and aerospace through exposure, training, mentoring and scholarships. ExpressJet is proud to support OBAP and other groups who share a passion for aviation and are dedicated to attracting the best talent and improving the industry.

From the team members who worked behind-the-scenes to the crew members operating the flight, ExpressJet is proud to help make the Bert’s Big Adventure trip a lifetime memory for each child and their family. Check out what Alex and a few of our 2015 volunteers had to say about their experience:

Robin Hollums, specialist – Market Planning & Development
I work on the paperwork side of the BBA trip, and even though my part is a very small piece of the overall effort, I love to support the cause. It is such a pleasure to see the children and the families with such joy and smiles on their faces before and after the trip. I also enjoy the preparation for BBA each year because it reminds me of the “heart” of ExpressJet and the ExpressJet people. They care and it shows every day, but on BBA trips the “heart” of ExpressJet becomes visible to others.

Gail Morgan, Maintenance admin – TYS
It was a pleasure for Knoxville (TYS) maintenance hangar to be a part of Bert’s Big Adventure by writing hand-written notes to the Adventurers. This is such an important event that ExpressJet takes part in each year. TYS has always been very supportive in our community and here at the hangar to all children. We recognize that children are our future and teaching and helping them learn plays such an important role. The employees here truly enjoyed writing a brief note to help start their big adventure to Disney World.

Meghan Pogue, specialist – Benefits
While I’ve attended the send-off party a few times, this was my first year as a Family Helper. The entire experience is magical and life-affirming. We learned some details about our child a few weeks in advance, and got to work right away planning a few surprises of our own for him. On the day of the departure flight, all of the kids were buzzing with energy, and had these huge smiles on their faces. When it was our turn to walk the red carpet, I challenged my child to high-five “every single person” lining the carpet. He took that challenge seriously! His mom just kept thanking all of us over and over and you could tell she almost didn’t believe that they were in the middle of this experience.

Monday (the return flight) was even better. You would think that everyone would be sad to see the trip come to an end, but it was again all smiles and excitement. The energy at the dance party was amazing. To see these children, who deal with so much on a day-to-day basis, be happy and carefree was just a fantastic experience. I would recommend volunteering, in whatever capacity you can, for Bert’s Big Adventure. Not only are we providing a great memory for these children and their families, we’re having our hearts filled as well.

Vanessa Anderson, flight attendant – ORD
I had the privilege of being selected as a flight attendant for the departure flight for BBA 2015. I was so very excited from the moment that I was chosen to be part of this great adventure. One of my favorite moments was seeing the mass support at the A-Tech hangar in Atlanta from ExpressJet employees. It warmed my heart! Those who work on the event are so well organized down to the smallest detail. I also loved decorating the aircraft with my fellow crew members in preparation for the kids’ arrival.

It was amazing seeing the excitement of each child as we prepared for takeoff. Lily was bubbling with anticipation! Zailey and Lali were fast friends, and Gabriel was so happy that his brothers were there with him. We pretended that we were on a great big roller coaster at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, and all the families threw their hands up in the air. The crew made each and every child, parent, and BBA staff member feel safe and comfortable during the flight, while getting them excited about their adventure. Dean Murfield, Heather Ragle, and I worked so efficiently it was as if we had worked together every single day. After we landed, it was lovely watching First Officer Gary Shipps and Captain Jennifer Shamsy help every single child down the steps of the aircraft to their awaiting buses. They paid attention to their safety without the passengers even knowing it. Thank you for the adventure, ExpressJet and BBA!

Heather Ragle, flight attendant – ATL
My crew and I were all hand-picked by BBA from applications we submitted to be part of this special day. It’s an amazing honor to watch these beautiful kids light up at taking their first flight, first limo ride, and the VIP treatment they get. It truly is an adventure that will provide these families memories of a lifetime. When we went back to pick them up on Monday I couldn’t wait to hear what they’d done. They were happy, tired and it was obvious that some of the kids and their parents had made new best friends. I spent time speaking to each of the families. The parents were all thrilled to see their kids smiling and enjoying life. It was a well needed break from reality and five glorious days of bonding for these families. The whole crew and I felt a connection with these kids and the organization, so we have decided to make Peachtree Road Race a fundraiser for BBA. Last year BBA received $83,000 in donations. They are able to do so much for these kids with that, what if they had $100,000? Once we get the fundraising page up we’ll be inviting everyone that is running the race at ExpressJet to participate. It’s truly a worthy cause. Until then, hug a loved one… life’s a gift! Go find your own adventure…

Alex Marren, COO
Thank you to every ExpressJet team member who worked to make this flight happen. It’s amazing to see how many crew members applied to operate the trip, the hundreds of hand-written notes our people sent in from around the country, and the excitement of our Family Helpers, employees and families at the Bon Voyage and Welcome Home events. I’m very proud of how dedicated our people are to the Bert’s Big Adventure cause.

Thank you to everyone who supported Bert’s Big Adventure 2015!

Adventurers deplaning as they’re welcomed by ExpressJet employees

Family Helpers greeting their special kids after their trip

Family Helpers helping their special child discover goodies in her bin at the Welcome Back event

ExpressJet crew members with a BBA family

BBA founder Bert Weiss with two adventurers

Adventurer hugging Spiderman at the Welcome Back event

Family Helpers and Bert dancing with the Adventurers at the Welcome Back event

Family Helpers escorting their families with their luggage

This week marked ExpressJet’s annual Locks of Love event. Five ExpressJet volunteers chopped off 10 inches of their hair to benefit children with permanent or long-term medical hair loss. Two other employees didn’t make the event, but donated their long locks independently. Locks of Love is a non-profit organization that provides high-quality hairpieces for financially disadvantaged children impacted by hair loss.

Our executive leaders showed their support by making the first cut to each volunteer’s hair before the professional stylists took over.
Following their donation, each volunteer received a complimentary makeover at Van Michael’s Salon Midtown in Atlanta, Ga.

Check out the before and after photos, and a special thank you to our volunteers and Van Michael’s Salon.